Secondary Market And Vending System For Devices

ABSTRACT

The system enables one to securely recycle an electronic device in a publicly accessible location. In particular, the embodiment described may be used by a mobile phone owner to submit his/her mobile phone for recycling via an electronic kiosk and receive compensation in some form. The compensation might be dispersed via cash, voucher, credit or debit card, or other magnetic or electronic transaction methods.

CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent application is a continuation application of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/573089, filed on Oct. 2, 2009, which claimspriority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/102304 filed Oct.2, 2008, now abandoned, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.61/183510 filed on Jun. 2, 2009, now abandoned, each of which isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention generally relates to recycling electronic devicessecurely at an electronic kiosk.

2 Description of the Related Art

There has been a large increase in the number of recyclable devices usedby the typical consumer. These devices include cell phones, PDA's, mp3players, GPS devices, cameras, beepers, remote controls, cordlessphones, calculators, etc. The rapid pace at which new technology andmodels of recyclable devices are introduced creates a situation wheremany consumers upgrade or replace one or more recyclable device on afrequent basis. Often, the consumer does not dispose of the priorrecyclable device, but rather just stops using it and begins using thenew device. This may happen over several generations of such devices.

In addition to recyclable devices, there are many other types of devicesthat have relatively high frequency replacement rates, includingportable/mobile electronic devices, such as cell phones, MP3 players,etc, and non-portable electronic devices, such as computers, printers,and the like. In addition to electronic devices, there are content baseddigital media such as games on CD, DVD, or cartridge, or entertainmentmass storage items such as CDs, DVDs, BluRay, etc. There is a need forhandling of such items in a ecologically friendly manner, both viarecycling or by proper disposal procedures. It has not been convenientfor owners of recyclable devices to either recycle such devices or toproperly dispose of such devices. There is currently little incentivefor a device owner to “do the right thing” with a used device. When theowner just stops using a device and simply puts it in storage, theopportunity for recycling or re-use by another party is lost. If theowner just throws the device away in normal trash containers, the properrecycling or safe disposing of the device is thwarted.

One particular problem associated with this phenomenon can beillustrated by an example of cell phones. There are more than 3.6billion mobile phone users in the world with an annual growth of 10% perannum. The replacement rate of mobile handsets is roughly every 18months as new models with more features and new standards evolve.Wireless carriers also offer new phones below cost, or free, asincentives to get customers to sign lucrative two-year service contractsensuring a constant build-up of old mobile phones. Old mobile phones andother mobile devices (pagers, PDAs) present a growing threat to theenvironment. As of 2007, there are more than 750 million mobile phoneswaiting to be recycled in the US; either in drawers, or already in thewaste stream. Another 150+million or so will be added this year and evenmore next year. Once in the waste stream, these devices may leak Lead,Mercury, Cadmium, Arsenic and other toxic substances into the watersupply. Municipalities often incinerate their waste, instantly puttingthese toxic elements into the air, and they return to earth in rainwater. A problem that needs to be solved is to make it easy andaccessible for the public to recycle or resell their mobile phones andother recyclable devices. Two reasons why mobile phones are not beingrecycled or resold are difficult access to recycling or resellingfacilities, and secondly security concerns about the information storedon the mobile phone. Although this example relates to mobile phones, thesame problems apply to all recyclable devices.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The system enables one to securely recycle, donate, trade-in, and/orsell portable/mobile electronic devices, such as cell phones, MP3players, etc, and non-portable electronic devices, such as computers,printers, and the like, as well electronic devices, there are contentbased digital media such as games on CD, DVD, or cartridge, orentertainment mass storage items such as CDs, DVDs, BluRay, etc. in apublicly accessible location. In an embodiment where mobile phones arerecycled, the system described may be used by a mobile phone owner tosubmit his/her mobile phone for recycling via an electronic kiosk andreceive compensation in some manner. The compensation might be dispersedvia cash, voucher, credit or debit card, or other magnetic or electronictransaction methods.

In one embodiment, a method for conducting the collection of previouslyused recyclable devices, such as mobile phones, GPS receivers, cameras,printers, computers, televisions, stereos, etc from consumers for thepurpose of recycling and refurbishing those devices is a kiosk in apublicly accessible location. The kiosk displays one or more transactionoptions. The method may further include interaction between the user andthe kiosk display options which may include powering these devices,testing and optical scanning, erasing of the stored data in thesedevices, determination and acceptance by consumer of compensation forthe device's value. The method may further include selection byconsumers through interaction with the kiosk a variety of compensationmethods including dispensing of cash, or redeemable voucher via coupon,or credit card debiting or crediting, electronic donation to userspecified charity or charities, or other electronic payment methods.

Having briefly described the present invention, the above and furtherobjects, features and advantages thereof will be recognized by thoseskilled in the pertinent art from the following detailed description ofthe invention when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective diagram of an embodiment of a recycling/vendingmachine of the system.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a networkimplementation of the system.

FIG. 3 is a flow diagram illustrating operation of an embodiment of thesystem.

FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating the operation of an embodiment ofthe system.

FIGS. 5A-5L illustrate display conditions in an embodiment of thesystem.

FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of the inspection port of the system.

FIG. 7 illustrates another embodiment of the inspection port of thesystem.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The system provides a path for consumers and others to sell, recycle, ordonate their recyclable electronic devices in a one-stop environment.The system contemplates a network of kiosks in public spaces that canperform a combination of recycling processing steps that receive,identify, visually inspect, electrically test, electrically erase, gradequality, containerize (bag), label, and inventory, recyclable electronicdevices. The system can then determine some form of compensation to anowner of the device. This compensation may be in the form of a directpayment, a credit on an account, a donation to a charity, a discountcoupon for future purchases, etc. The device owner can accept theoffered compensation or reverse the transaction and retrieve the device.

In the following description, an example is given with respect to mobilephones. However, it should be understood that the system can beimplemented with any number of other devices or items, including otherrecyclable devices, without departing from the spirit and scope of thesystem. The system applies to, among others, any pre-owned electronicdevice or other consumer electronic and electric devices.

FIG. 1 illustrates a partially schematic front isometric view of arecycling kiosk 100 configured in accordance with an embodiment of thesystem. The kiosk 100 in this embodiment is of a typical size and shapeof a vending machine, such as a soda machine, coin changing machine, canrecycling machine, or other vending machines.

In one aspect of this embodiment, the recycling kiosk 100 includes asealable mobile phone input region 106, bill and voucheracceptor/dispenser 107, card reader 109, mobile phone collector formobile phones to be refurbished 112, mobile phone collection receptacle108 (quick drop) for mobile phones to be recycled and computing andcommunications facility (not shown). The couplings from and to a remotecomputer may be a single coupling to a communications network such asthe internet via wired LAN, wireless LAN, cellular or any otherproprietary communications system. The Kiosk 100 may include aprocessing means or computer within the device. This may be a standardPC or other type embedded computer running any operating system such asLinux or MAC OS. The system may include a storage device that is astandard hard disk drive that will store the executable applications,test software, databases and other software required to operate therecycling kiosk.

The communications system can be either wired Ethernet to provideconnection to the internet or it can use a wireless modem such as GSM,CDMA, 3G and 4G technologies for data communications. Thiscommunications system is well known by those knowledgeable of wirelessdata communications and is commercially available.

The kiosk 100 also includes a bar code reader 125, bag/package dispenser120, fingerprint reader 128, and digital signature pad 130. The inputregion 106 also acts as a phone inspection area. Referring now to FIGS.6 and 7, the inspection area can include a one or more cameras 601-604,magnification tools 701 (i.e. magnifying glass), bar code scanners,weight scales, heat detectors, UV reader/detector, and the like.

The recycling kiosk 100 may further include a user interface device,such as a touch screen 118. The touch screen 108 may implement a keypad,user selection buttons 115A-115D, soft keys, etc. The touch screen 118may be used to enable quick and easy access to various features andfunctions of the recycling kiosk 100. The display screen 118 may displayinformation in color, monochrome, or “gray-scale,” and may be used todisplay elements of a user interface, advertisements, or otherinformation. The recycling kiosk 100 may accept/dispense various formsof payment, including cash, credit cards, debit cards, chip cards, giftcards from the kiosk's host location or other gift cards, and othermagnetic striped cards or electronic payment methods. In one embodimentof the recycling kiosk 100, a telephone handset may be included (notshown) to enable a customer to communicate with advertisers, providersof products advertised on the recycling kiosk, and to access assistancein using the recycling kiosk 100. In other embodiments, amicrophone/speaker arrangement may be used. The recycling kiosk may alsoinclude a digital camera for use during mobile phone testing and otherservices. The Kiosk may also use the same or other camera to record theimage of the user for purposes of complying with Second Hand DealerLaws. The kiosk also includes a supply 120 of sealable plastic bags thathave pre-printed barcode labels affixed thereto. The kiosk 100 alsoincludes a bar code reader 125 to scan the bar code and associate itwith a phone that is being transacted at the kiosk. The bar coder readerand/or UV detector can be used to scan an identifying bar code or otherform of encoded information to identify the product model or productnumber. The system may use the barcode reader to read the barcodedidentification on the inside of the battery pack. UV can be used forreading “invisible” barcodes in use by certain vendors such as Apple andothers. The machine's bar code reader, camera, or UV detector is used toidentify the product model ID, IMEI #, and/or FCC ID.

Further, the consumer may be asked to pre-bag, pre-box or place abarcode label on the CE device at some point before or during theinspection process. The consumer may be instructed to use wheels, slidesor levers to drop the CE into a bag, box or directly into a bin. Ifdropped into a bag or box, the consumer may be instructed to use wheels,slides or levers to seal the outer package.

Each kiosk 100 will bin phones according to parameters including but notlimited to; vendor/model, condition, value, visual quality, physicaldamage, water damage, locked or unlocked, carrier compatibility,frequency of phone, type of cellular standard supported (CDMA, GSM,etc.), or combinations of these parameters. The inventory of each kioskbin may then be automatically transmitted from the kiosk to an onlineweb posting whereby auctions, or live auctions can be held allowingbuyers to bid and purchase specific bins from specific kiosks in realtime. The bins then can be shipped directly from each specific kiosk tothe bid winner during the next time the kiosk is serviced. Bins canassociated with a single model or group of models. In other cases thebins may be associated with a particular type of phone (e.g. CDMA), oran other grouping that makes sense. Bins may also be associated withdevices that are to be recycled for their material value, and shouldonly ship when the bin is full. While other devices are binned todistinguish that they need to ship as quickly as possible because thedevice has immediate aftermarket re-sale demand and the real-timeconnection to the kiosk enables real-time inventory tracking and binningof recycled devices

In one embodiment, the display of the system displays current purchaseprices for different models of mobile phones. This can be used toencourage and provide incentive to customers to bring their used phonesto the kiosk for resale or recycling. The kiosk can be in regular andperiodic communication with the server to receive such data and updateits display accordingly. The pricing data provided to the kiosk iscalled the Offer Price to the consumer, and is based upon aftermarketsales prices which vary on a regular basis (ie, daily) and for eachmake/model of recycled device. The offer price presented to the consumeris determined by subtracting the recycling fee from the pricing dataprovided by the aftermarket reseller.

The kiosk also monitors all of its consumables (paper, ink, etc.) andrequests new supplies automatically so that the kiosk can besubstantially constantly operational.

FIG. 2 illustrates a network topology 200 configured in accordance withan embodiment of the system. In one aspect of this embodiment, severalrecycling kiosks 202 may be coupled via communications links 204 or 210to a communications network 206. While two forms of connecting recyclingkiosks are shown in this FIG. 2, several embodiments are anticipated.Examples of embodiments of recycling kiosks include various forms ofvending machines, Open Mobile Service Interface (OMSI,http://www.omsi-forum.org/) based kiosks, and other retail automatedmachines. Also coupled to the communications network 206 via acommunications link 212 may be a recycling kiosk server 214.

Transactions selected by customers at the recycling kiosks 202 or 208may be routed to the recycling kiosk server 214. In another aspect ofthis embodiment, the recycling kiosk server 214 may be coupled to adatabase 215. The database 215 may be stored on the same or anotherrecycling kiosk server 214, or may reside in a separate server (notshown). One familiar with the relevant art will understand how softwareexecuting on a recycling kiosk server 214 will be able to retrieve datastored in the database 215, whether that database 215 is stored on thesame or separate servers. The database 215 may store informationincluding unique identifiers that have been provided to customer vis theTouch Screen user interface or by way of wired or wirelesscommunications to mobile device relating to vouchers, a personalidentification number associated with each unique identifier, atelephone number, a credit amount, an indication of whether the voucheridentified has already been used, and other pertinent informationrelating to providing recycling services on any recycling kiosk 202 or208. In one aspect of this embodiment, the database transfers mediacontent or executable applications to be delivered to the users' mobiledevice by way of wired or wireless communications.

In yet another aspect of this embodiment, the recycling kiosk server 214may be coupled via a communications link to a biometrics server 216 anda content server 218. The biometrics server 216 conducts various frauddetection and prevention activities, including prevention of fraudulentcredit cards. The content server 218 may perform various activities,including storing user interface content and advertising for use on therecycling kiosks 202 and 208. One familiar with the relevant art willunderstand how content stored on the content server 218 is transferredvia various communications links and protocols to recycling kiosks 202and 208 for rendering the content.

The content stored on a content server 218 may include images,Extensible Markup Language (“XML”) documents, hypertext markup language(“HTML”) documents, audio, video, text, etc., and instructions to enablea recycling kiosk 202 or 208 to render the content correctly. As anexample, advertising and other content specifically targeted to consumerdemographics on a kiosk or time-of-day basis may be rendered onrecycling kiosks 202 and 208 after retrieval from the content server218. A recycling kiosk 202 located in a department store may displaydifferent advertisements than a recycling kiosk 208 located at aconvenience store. Additionally, a recycling kiosk 202 located in adepartment store may show different advertisements during weekdays thanduring evenings and weekends to target different demographics. Further,a recycling kiosk 202 located in a sporting goods department may showdifferent advertisements than a recycling kiosk 202 located in anelectronics department.

Recycling kiosks may be located in many public or otherwise accessiblelocations including shopping centers, street sidewalks, gas stations,DVD rental stores, grocery stores, and restaurants in addition todepartment and convenience stores. The recycling kiosk server 214 mayalso be coupled via a communications link 222 to a recycling kioskcommunications network 224. Multiple service provider systems 228 mayalso be coupled to the recycling kiosk communications network 224 viacommunications links 226. Examples of service provider systems 228include systems operated by eBay, cellular telephone companies, bankcardcompanies, and aggregators of services from service providers. Thesevarious service provider systems 228 may operate independently ondifferent computer systems and may use different communicationsprotocols. The recycling kiosk server 214 may be able to exchangeinformation with multiple service provider systems 228 independently orjointly and in parallel or sequentially despite using the same ordifferent communications protocols or system software.

A possible use scenario of the embodiment described in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2is shown in FIG. 3. At step 301 a customer elects to sell or recycle amobile phone. The customer checks to see if his mobile phone issupported for sale/refurbishing from a list on the screen of the kiosk.The customer activates the on-screen menu system and either enters thephone model directly or goes through a series of menus to determine ifthe phone is eligible for sale or only for recycling. After identifyingthe model phone, the customer may optionally at step 301 select acharity to which to donate proceeds and/or identify a fund raising groupso that appropriate credit can be given to that group. In otherembodiments, theses steps can be done at a later time. In oneembodiment, the kiosk takes a picture of the customer and associates itwith the phone and the transaction, to prevent fraud claims or toidentify potential customers who are selling stolen phones.

At decision block 302 it is determined if the phone is only availablefor recycling. If yes, (i.e. it is not on the list of phones availablefor reselling) the customer can insert the mobile phone into receptacle106 at step 303 and the phone falls into bin 112 for recycling. A taxvoucher might be presented through 107 for the recycled phone.

If the phone is supported for refurbishment/resale the customer is thenencouraged to engage the testing/rating operation of the system. At step304, the system has determined the correct connector to couple to thephone. Connectivity options include and are not limited to cable,standard or proprietary connectors, hard docks, reading removable orexternal physical memory or other wireless methods like wifi, Bluetooth,RFID, NFC, and the like. In one embodiment, the system includes aplurality of connectors for known phone models. Based on the input fromthe user as to the identity of the phone model, the system can selectthe correct connector and offer it to the customer. In otherembodiments, a plurality of connectors is available and identified (byname, color, etc) and the user is informed as to which one to use. Inanother embodiment, a universal connector is used to connect to thephone. After the phone is connected, the system presents a cage orcradle in which to place the phone. This is designed so that the phoneis in a known or unknown initial position so that it can be visuallyinspected using photographic or other equipment.

At step 305 the phone is connected and inserted into 106. If this hasbeen done correctly, the customer is given some indication (e.g. a greenlight) and the system proceeds to step 306. For instance, the softwaremay direct the consumer to place the device in the “inspection bin” in acertain orientation. The consumer may then be asked to manually changethe orientation Alternatively, the user may be asked to turn wheels oruse slides or levers to change the orientation. The consumer may beasked to open a device such as a clam shell phone, open doors or viewfinders on video cameras, pop open features such as flashes, slide opencovers, etc. and then place the item back in the inspection area. Theuser may also be asked to attach cables. The user may also be asked toattach restraints and/or use wheels, slides and/or levers to invokerestraint on the device.

At step 306 the phone is tested for operation using diagnostics andoperating via, for example, the OMSI interface. The diagnostics mayinclude electrical and physical testing including testing the phone'sbattery, screen, memory, button functionality and structural integrity.

In one embodiment, the phone is photographed and analysis software isused to identify scratches, cracks, wear patterns, dents, broken ormissing pieces, inclusion of features such as lenses, buttons,connectors, badges, labeling and/or branding. Identification may be doneby image comparison or other similar methods where the photograph takenof the phone is normalized and compared to a reference image. Otherinspection methods may be used in conjunction with visual and/orelectrical testing including weighing each device in the kiosk todetermine specific weight and use that data to further refineverification of manufacturer and verification of exact device model. Inanother embodiment, the photographic image is used to identify thecorrect manufacturer and model number/product number. Visual ID couldinclude any combination of the following: calculations based uponmeasurement, physical (e.g., mm, in, . . . ), pixel count or other.Identification based upon phone dimensions, location/size of buttons,LCD and other physical characteristics. One camera or multiple camerasmay be used to determine height, width, depth as needed. Identificationbased on OCR (Optical Character Recognition) of identifiers such asCarrier (for phone), brand, model, serial number, other identifiers.Identification based upon barcodes. Consumer may be asked to orient CEon its front, back, side and then asked to change orientation as needed.Consumer may even be asked to remove CE cover(s), batteries and the likein order to gain access to identifiable items, such alphanumeric orbarcode data. The system provides a way to use visual inspection withelectrical inspection to identify a device, determine its value, andreduce possible fraud. The system can determine a preliminaryidentification of the phone with the visual system, and then present orlight up the correct cable for that phone so the consumer can plug inthe correct cable. The system can then confirm by electrical test thatthe visual identification was indeed correct, then test the phone todetermine its functionality and value.

Identification is made by comparing collected information and comparingthat to a database. The correct model identity is used by the kiosksystem to determine the correct electrical connector from a database ofdevice specification information for the purpose of performingelectrical test, erase or re-programming of the device. For ConsumerElectronic devices such as stereos, computers, DVD players, gameconsoles, etc. that can be evaluated electronically, in addition to orinstead of visually identifying the device; it may be necessary toidentify the cable connector type for electronic inspection. This can bedone by visually identifying the dimensions and shape of a connectorreceptacle. This could also include identification of the pins orconnector points in the receptacle. The kiosk system may automaticallyconnect the electrical interface to the mobile device or instruct theuser how to connect the electrical connector to the electronic device.In another embodiment, the image is electronically transferred to ahuman operator who can do a visual evaluation and grading of thecosmetic condition of the phone. In another embodiment, if the customerdoes not agree with the assigned grade or rating, the system includes acall button to provide two way communications with a human operator todiscuss the rating.

In another embodiment, a “micro-kiosk” which would have the samefacilities for visual/electrical inspection but would not necessarilybin and store the products it evaluates. The micro-kiosk would be usedby an operator, perhaps with a group of discrete peripheral devices(computer, camera, a plurality of cable connectors, printer, barcodescanner, fingerprint reader, signature pad, etc.). This system wouldrequire an operator, store clerk, or technician, to completetransactions and guard against fraud. It may be a more appropriatesolution than a full kiosk for some venues such as floor-space limitedretailers, high-customer-clerk-engagement model retailers, and phoneprocessors and/or refurbishers.

In one embodiment, the system communicates with the carrier associatedwith the phone to collect any information that could be germane to thedevice, including, for example, validation or authentication, registeredownership, account status, time in service, etc. In some cases, when thecustomer's identification information does not match the registeredowner information, the system might automatically contact the assumedowner in some manner (automated telephone call, email, text message,etc.) to alert the owner of the phone of the possible transaction.

Another feature of an embodiment of the system is to determine if thereis personal information on the phone. This can be determined by thepresence of data in particular storage registers in the memory (e.g.quick-key stored numbers) or by looking at file types (jpegs, mp3s,etc.). or just assuming all non-default storage locations must containpersonal data. The customer is offered the chance to erase the data fromthe phone. One option allows the customer to request that the data befirst downloaded and then sent to a location designated by the customer(e.g. email address, web site, etc.). In another embodiment, there is aslot for the customer to enter a memory card (e.g. USB drive, memorystick, etc.) whereupon the system will upload the data to the memorydevice. In still another embodiment, the system offers a web locationfrom which the user may retrieve the data at some later time if desired.In another embodiment, the user can, elect to have the data placed inanother phone purchased by the customer at the kiosk or in the locationof the kiosk or some other store. The customer can select a user nameand password to access the system provided storage location.

Based on the results of the diagnostics, the system assigns the phone arating. This rating can be a selection of one of a plurality ofcategories (e.g. excellent, fair, average, poor), a letter grade (A, B,C, D, F), or a ranking on a numerical scale. The system then accesses adatabase to determine a real-time value for the phone based on currentresale values. The system may use real time or batch connectivity forupdating pricing of used devices, connecting to an auction system orpre-auction system.

This data can be scraped from online sites such as eBay or Craigslist,it may be generated by the system and updated periodically, it may bebased on a consumer guide, or any other suitable method for determininga current value for the phone. The value is determined by a currentmarket price obtained via communication to the recycling server 214using the communications network 206. The recycling server obtains acurrent market price for the phone from one of the service providers andstores, on a regular basis, market prices on the database. In theembodiment described in FIG. 1, a mechanism is available to updateaudiovisual or other user interface content or other aspects of therecycling kiosks 202 and 208. As an example, when content needs to beupdated, the content only needs to be updated at the content server 218.The recycling kiosks 202 and 208 retrieve the updated content via thecommunications network 206 from the content server 218. As describedabove, the content used by a recycling kiosk 202 may be the same ordifferent than content used by other recycling kiosks 208 or evenanother recycling kiosk 202. Once the value is determined, the value isprovided at step 307 to the kiosk. The system then offers the customer aprice or other remuneration for the phone that is typically less thanthe resale value. In other embodiments, the system can offer thecustomer a price or remuneration that is at the current real-time marketprice.

At step 308 it is determined if the user wishes to accept the offer. Ifnot, the system proceeds to step 309 and opens the cage door andreleases the phone back to the customer. If the user wishes to acceptthe offer, the system proceeds to step 310. At appoint where the useraccepts a price, the system may then lock down the inspection area toprevent further access to the phone by the user. The system may thendisconnect any cables that have been attached. At step 310, the userindicates acceptance of the decision by confirming on the keypad ortouch-screen. In one embodiment, the system has a multi-stage process todetermine user acceptance so that the customer can back out if a mistakewas made. At this point the system can proceed with deleting thepersonal data from the phone. In addition, once the transaction isconfirmed, the system can tag the phone with a transaction number thatis associated with the diagnostic data and the transaction itself. Thismay be a printed adhesive label that is affixed physically to the phoneand/or the loading of electronic data corresponding to the transactionnumber onto the phone itself for traceability purposes.

At step 311 the system completes any additional testing and diagnosticsof the phone, disconnects the cable from the phone, and prints a receiptfor the customer. Transfer of funds may be authorized via the kiosk bycrediting a customer credit card or account, by dispensing cash, or bydispensing a voucher or coupon. In other embodiments, the system issuesa receipt to the customer who then can take it to, for example, a. storeassociated with the location of the kiosk, for payment. If the user haselected to donate the value of the phone to charity, the customer thenis issued a donation receipt and settlement is accomplished later withthe charity.

At step 312 the system updates its inventory database and transmits theupdate via the communications network 206 to the kiosk server 214.

Each kiosk will bin phones according to parameters including but notlimited to; vendor/model, condition, value of device, shipping priority,locked or unlocked, carrier compatibility, frequency of phone, type ofcellular standard supported (CDMA, GSM, etc), or combinations of theseparameters. The inventory of each kiosk bin will then be transmittedfrom the kiosk to and online web posting whereby live auctions can beheld allowing buyers to bid and purchase specific bins from specifickiosks in real time. The bins then can be shipped directly from eachspecific kiosk to the bid winner during the next time the kiosk isserviced.

The generation of these online offers can be automated. Appropriate textfor each model of phone can be prepared in advance. Descriptions of thephone can be also automated based on the perceived condition of thephone. Finally, the inspection photograph(s) can be included in theonline offer by electronically communicating them to the kiosk server.The diagnostics and testing information can be provided as part of theoffer, as well as information about whether the phone is locked orunlocked, includes a sim card, expanded memory, or other descriptiveinformation and features.

In other embodiments, the phones are first collected from the kiosk andthen put into a resale channel. In some cases, the phones may berefurbished, reconditioned, or upgraded prior to resale. In anotherembodiment, the system is able to automatically update the firmware inthe device while it is attached to the connector. Any updates orimprovements that can be made electronically can be accomplishedautomatically at the kiosk.

One use of the kiosks may be to encourage fund raising by charitable orcommunity groups. For example, instead of collecting old cans andbottles for recycling, groups such as the scouts, little league, orother groups could collect recyclable devices such as phones and use thekiosks to raise money. In one embodiment, the group registers with thesystem and receives a group identification number. Each individual mightalso receive an individual number. This is to encourage friendlycompetition among the fundraisers. The system can assign credits to eachfundraiser based on the number and value of donated devices that areprovided. In addition, the registration process allows the automaticdeposit of funds to the charity or fundraising group. Even when thefundraising group is not the entity providing the phone, any customercan still elect to donate any funds to a charity. The customer can bepresented with a list of registered charities and fundraising groups andcan select one or more to receive all or some of the customer'sproceeds.

Many phones and recyclable devices include proprietary chargers. Oneembodiment of the system contemplates the ability for the user to plugin the charger and insert the connector into a receptacle so that thecharger can be tested as well.

The system then tags the charger with the same transaction number andincludes its value in the price and resale.

The system not only rates the cosmetic condition of the phone, but canalso rate the condition of the battery. Once connected, the system candetermine the ability of the battery to hold a charge, can measure isvoltage and current, and assign a rating to the battery as well.

FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating another embodiment of theoperation of the system. The flow diagram of FIG. 4 is described inconjunction with embodiments of touch screen display images of FIGS.5A-5L. At step 401 the operation begins. The display of the kiosk 100may be as in FIG. 5A. An upper part of the screen may include a numberof selectable options such as Recycle My Cell Phone 501, Printer RecycleOffer 502, Computer Recycle Offer 503 (This may be a branded orsponsored recycle offer, such as from a single company such as Dell) andDevice Recycle Offer 504 (this button may be used for other devices andrecyclable items that are not covered by the first three buttons). Ifdesired, an attract loop (i.e. movie) may be provided in a lower region505 of the display. The attract loop may also be used to teach the userhow to use the system.

In one embodiment, the kiosk can broadcast wifi to push content to wifienabled phones. The system can make users aware of its existence byalerting them via such wireless transmissions. In addition, the kioskcould play and/or broadcast content for the store location and/or thirdparties as an additional revenue source.

After the user selects the type of transaction at step 401, the systemmoves to the next screen. For purposes of example, we will presume thatthe user has elected to recycle a cell phone. The user selects the typeof cell phone as shown in FIG. 5B by choosing smart phone 506 or cellphone 507.

At step 402 the user chooses a brand of phone, such as by selecting abrand in FIG. 5C. If the users' brand is not shown on 5C, a “more”selection is available. In one embodiment, a keyboard is provided andthe user can type in the brand, with an optional auto-complete featureprovided. At step 403, the user is presented with a number of models forthe particular manufacturer, as shown at FIG. 5D. The user selects themodel at step 403.

At step 404, the user is instructed to get a bag from bag bin 120. Atstep 405 the user places the phone in the bag and seals it using a ziplock or some other suitable means. In one embodiment, each bag haspre-printed bar code label affixed thereto. In another embodiment, thekiosk 100 can print out a bar-coded self-adhesive label that the usercan place on the bag. At step 406 the user scans the bar code using thebar code reader 125 of the kiosk 100.

At step 407 the kiosk may automatically bag the device or the userplaces the sealed bag into the inspection bin 106 of the kiosk 100. Atstep 408 the user is presented with a default value such as shown inscreen 5E. This default value is for a typical phone of that type inunknown condition. The value may be determined by accessing a locallystored database or by accessing a dynamically updated database vianetwork communication between the kiosk and a central location.

At decision block 409 it is determined if the user wants to accept theinitial price. If so, the system proceeds to step 413. If not, thesystem proceeds to step 410 and a series of questions to determine apossible higher value for the phone. The user is first asked to identifythe carrier at step 410 (see FIG. 5F). At step 411 the user is askedother questions about the phone such as whether it powers on (FIG. 5G),if the display works properly (FIG. 5H) and whether the phone is waterdamaged (FIG. 51).

At step 412 and FIG. 5J, a new value is presented to the user. In somecases, the new value is higher, while in others it may be lower, alldepending on the responses provided by the user. During this time, thesystem may do an automated inspection of the phone via a camera builtinto the inspection bin. In other instances, the user may be asked toplug the phone into a connector so that an automated electronic analysisof the phone can be accomplished.

If the user accepts the new value at step 412 or at step 408, the systemproceeds to collect personal information from the user at step 413. Thismay be accomplished by entering a customer loyalty number associatedwith a retailer where the kiosk is located, swiping a credit/debit card,by swiping a drivers license, or by manual entry using a keyboardpresented on the touch screen of the kiosk, such as shown in FIGS. 5Kand 5L.

At step 414 the user selects one of a plurality of compensation methods,such as store credit, charge card credit, discount coupon, etc. Afterthe user selects a payment method, the user is prompted to enter afingerprint by placing a thumb or finger on print reader 128 of kiosk100. At step 416 the user signs an electronic signature pad 130 on kiosk100 and the transaction completes at step 417.

Additional Embodiment

In an alternate embodiment, the system provides a network ofinter-connected kiosks which communicate with centralized servers forthe purpose of proving real-time pricing for a plurality of electronicdevices that can be recycled using the system, including largerelectronic devices such as personal computers, microwaves, or any otherrecyclable electronic device. The system implements functionalityrelated to pricing, credit, and interaction, but provides a number ofdifferent implementations for receiving and transferring the recycledgoods. The system may also include a web version that can be an initialentry into the system with physical transfer taking place in othermethods.

As noted above, the system provides an interactive kiosk with touchscreen display, printer, storage receptacle, envelopes/bags for storingdevices. The User Interface (UI) instructs users how to determine thevalue of a recycled item or item being returned to a retail store for atrade-in value.

The machine will use a variety of inspection techniques to determine thevalue of the device digital media. The inspection techniques include thecombination of visual inspection, and electrical testing using standard(USB, HDMI, DVI, etc.) electrical interfaces and proprietary (Apple,Nokia, etc.) electrical interfaces for identification & classificationto uniquely identify the manufacturer and model number and softwarerevision. Inspection of digital media such as games or entertainmentmass storage devices may include unique interfaces and cabling necessaryto digitally test a game cartridge or disc. DVD, BlueRay, or other discdrives may be used to read media discs. The software of the kiosk willverify the legitimacy, functionality and quality of the digital mediastored on the mass storage disc or cartridge or tape cassette. In oneembodiment, a user can recycle a game in advance of a new game releaseand receive credit towards the purchase of the new game and in someembodiments, get a preferred opportunity to get the game in advance ofthose who haven't recycled at the kiosk.

The system contemplates a number of ways for the user to interact withthe system. Where possible, a comprehensive inspection and analysis isperformed on the offered device and a price or credit is agreed upon. Inanother embodiment, a tentative price is agreed on pending an audit ofthe condition of the device. In one embodiment, the device may bedeposited directly into the kiosk itself In another embodiment, thesystem directs the seller to an associated store to hand over the deviceto appropriate personnel. In a different embodiment, the system providesmailing labels, envelopes, and the like so that the seller can ship thedevice to another location.

Small Devices: The kiosk provides a price for a small portableelectronic device which is inserted in an envelope and placed into thekiosk for later payment once the device is audited.

Shipping Embodiment/Delayed Compensation

This is used where the user wants to recycle an electronic device andbrings it to a local retailer. At the kiosk, the user selects the typeof device to recycle (phone, camera, etc.) from a menu interface. Theuser answers questions about operating status, scratches, other defects,accessories y/n, etc.

As described above, the Kiosk displays the estimated value along withpayment options including cash, % to a charity donation, retailer giftcard, etc. The seller elects to proceed and accepts deal by enteringpersonal information. At that point, the Kiosk prints a label; the userplaces electronic devices in shipping bag, and places the label on, thebag. Alternatively, the bag has a preprinted label already attached. Theuser then mails or ships the bag to the addressed location. At thatpoint, the device may be audited to determine if the condition,features, and operability of the device matches the determination orinput at the Kiosk. If so, the user is credited or paid the originalamount. If the device is in worse condition, the user is notified and alower price is paid.

User Inserts Bag Into Kiosk

Large Devices:

In some cases, such as when the user has a much larger item like a PC,printer, or monitor that won't fit into the kiosk or is difficult tomail or ship, they interact with the kiosk to enter information,determine a value, and print paperwork to give to a clerk in anassociated store along with item. In this case, the paper provides allthe instructions for the store clerk to follow based upon a pre-definedset of rules between the retailer, OEM, and the system. The user iscredited or paid, and the store handles further shipping or transfer ofthe item.

Content Media Trade-In/Trade-Up Claim

A network connected kiosk may be used by a consumer for the purpose ofdetermining the functionality and trade-in value of content media suchas a digital game, DVD, CD-ROM, BlueRay disk, etc. The items may becartridges, disc, or other form of digital media used in conjunctionwith a content player such as a game system, PC, DVD Player and thelike.

The machine must test the media to ensure that it is not a pirated orillegitimate copy of the game and that the game is in gooddigital/physical condition such that it is still usable and saleable ona secondary market. The information learned during the testing mayinclude (but is not limited to), the maker, the game name and revision,and some qualification that the game is in fact operational.

The machine may use actual game consoles and/or other computers to testthe games and digital media to verify their legitimacy andfunctionality.

Operation

The procedure which follows describes the user interaction with themachine for the purpose of 1) establishing value of the device, digitalgame, or other digital media using internet connectivity to a pricingengine server, and 2) for the purpose of remunerating the user for theagreed upon price provided by the kiosk and the network server. Theprice may be good for a period of time after the price is established bythe kiosk (i.e., 2 weeks).

User approaches Media Take-back Kiosk and touches screen to start

What type of media is being inserted? User selects Console then mediaidentification

Display instructs user which connector to plug the media module/discinto (perhaps the machine only presents the correct cable or port basedupon the media type).

User inserts media.

Kiosks confirms media name, maker, and digital quality (i.e., scratchedDVD).

Kiosks displays trade-in price or may display a promotional offers toapply the proceeds towards the purchase of other media or accessories.

The kiosk will incorporate multiple connectors, slots, and plugs-inlocations to accommodate the wide variety of media form factors (e.g.disks, cartridges, etc.).

The kiosk will incorporate a collection of individual content playingconsoles (i.e., XBOX360, Wii, etc.) used to test the media to verifythat it is functional.

The kiosk will incorporate these capabilities for the purpose ofdetermining the value of a pre-owned consumer media by testing, andinspecting the media.

The kiosk is connected to the internet and a real-time pricing systemwill use the information collected at the kiosk to determine the marketprice or promotional trade-in value to present to the user. The userthen must decide to proceed with the transaction or opt out.

Web Embodiment

A Web based pricing Kiosk replicates the experience of the kiosk butallows for a user to bring the device with them to the store, and dropit off after getting a price online The system may print out a receipt,mailing label, etc. for the user to bring to a participating collectioncenter.

The electronic recycling kiosk collects information that when compiledfor the retailer, can be used to substantiate their compliance withStates' eWaste and 2nd Hand Dealer Laws.

The recycling kiosk can be used to take personal information such as aphotograph and fingerprint to identify people selling pre-owned goods,and as needed provide this information to local law enforcementauthorities to determine if stolen goods have been moved through therecycling process, and by whom.

For devices with a USB interface, the Kiosk extracts PID/VID# using theUSB interface to determine the make/model and present to the consumer avalue based upon a real-time look-up of the current market value.

The system can use HDMI, DVI, 1394, i-Link interfaces and support forEDID (HDMI ID protocol) and same for DVI. Use these protocols toidentify CE devices.

To prevent or reduce fraud, the system may incorporate a number of testsand analysis such as:

Weighing the device--this is prone to errors (case, no case, battery, nobattery)

Visually inspecting the device to detect slight design features todetect fakes

IR, Visible light or laser scan a device to derive an heatabsorption/decay signature for a given device. The theory is that thedecay signature will be different for every make/model of device andwill vary with the orientation of the scan on the same device. Fake orempty devices will not have the proper signature and will not beaccepted for immediate payment. In this case, the user has the option toget paid after the phone is inspected by a human.

From the foregoing it is believed that those skilled in the pertinentart will recognize the meritorious advancement of this invention andwill readily understand that while the present invention has beendescribed in association with a preferred embodiment thereof, and otherembodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings, numerous changesmodification and substitutions of equivalents may be made thereinwithout departing from the spirit and scope of this invention which isintended to be unlimited by the foregoing except as may appear in thefollowing appended claim. Therefore, the embodiments of the invention inwhich an exclusive property or privilege is claimed are defined in thefollowing appended claims.

1. A system for recycling portable electronic devices, the systemcomprising: a plurality of kiosk, each of the plurality of kioskcomprising a housing having an input region for placement of anelectronic device therein, at least one camera positioned in the inputregion for imaging the electronic device, a computer in communicationwith the at least one camera for processing the image to identify theelectronic device and to determine a cosmetic condition of theelectronic device, and a communications component for transmittingcommunications from the kiosk and receiving communications for thekiosk; and a kiosk server in communication with each of the plurality ofkiosk, the kiosk server communicating with each of the plurality ofkiosk through the communication component of each of the plurality ofkiosks.
 2. The system according to claim 1 further comprising acommunications network.
 3. The system according to claim 1 wherein thecommunications component is a wireless modem.
 4. The system according toclaim 1 wherein the communications component is a wired Ethernetconnection to the Internet.
 5. The system according to claim 1 whereinthe electronic device is at least one of a mobile phone, a GPS receiver,a camera, a printer, a computer, a televisions and a stereo.
 6. Thesystem according to claim 1 further comprising a biometrics server incommunication with the kiosk server, the biometrics server configured toconduct fraud detection and fraud prevention activities.
 7. The systemaccording to claim 1 further comprising a content server incommunication with the kiosk server, the content server configured tostore user interface content and advertising for use on the each of theplurality of kiosks.
 8. The system according to claim 1 wherein theimage from at least one camera is transmitted to the kiosk server forcomparison to a reference image on a database at the kiosk server todetermine the cosmetic condition of the electronic device.
 9. The systemaccording to claim 1 wherein the computer determines a compensationvalue for the electronic device based on the identification of theelectronic device and the cosmetic condition of the electronic device.10. A method for recycling an electronic device at a kiosk, the methodcomprising: receiving an electronic device from a user at an inputregion of a kiosk, the electronic device selected from the group ofmobile phone, a GPS receiver, a camera, a printer, a computer, atelevisions and a stereo; imaging the electronic device at the inputregion utilizing at least one camera; performing optical characterrecognition to identify at least one of a brand, model and serial numberof the electronic device; automatically inspecting the electronic deviceto determine a cosmetic condition of the electronic device; determininga compensation value for the electronic device, the compensation valuebased on the identification of the electronic device and the cosmeticcondition of the electronic device; and offering the compensation valueto the user on a display screen of the kiosk.
 11. The method accordingto claim 10 further comprising transmitting the identification andcosmetic condition of the electronic device over a network to a kioskserver to determine the compensation value for the electronic device,and receiving the compensation value from the kiosk server over thenetwork at the kiosk.
 12. The method according to claim 10 whereinautomatically inspect the electronic device comprises at least one ofidentifying scratches, cracks, wear patterns, dents, broken or missingpieces, inclusion of features such as lenses, buttons, connectors,badges, labeling and branding.
 13. The method according to claim 10wherein the electronic device is a mobile phone and the method furthercomprises contacting a phone carrier for the mobile phone for at leastone of validation, authentication, registered ownership, account status,and time in service.
 14. The method according to claim 10 wherein theelectronic device is a mobile phone and the method further compriseserasing personal data from the mobile phone.
 15. The method according toclaim 10 further comprising using a pre-auction system to determine thecompensation value.